Thailand Is Just a Backpacker Highway Now – These 14 Southeast Asian Countries Are What Thailand Was in the 90s
There was a time when backpacking felt like freedom—when travel meant chasing unknown roads, getting lost in small towns, and swapping stories over cheap street food with strangers who became friends.
That sense of discovery has faded in some corners, replaced by crowded hostels and well-worn routes. But the spirit of raw, unfiltered adventure is still alive—you just have to know where to look.
Across Southeast Asia, some places capture that same magic, places that feel like stepping back into a freer, wilder era of travel. Here’s where that old backpacker heartbeat still thrives.
1. Laos
Laos has quietly become the backpacker’s dream that Thailand once was—laid-back, raw, and full of charm. Unlike its tourist-heavy neighbor, Laos feels like stepping into a slower rhythm of life where riverside towns, golden temples, and winding roads define the journey. Whether it’s sipping coffee along the Mekong in Luang Prabang or hopping on a rickety bus to Vang Vieng, there’s a sense that you’re seeing a country still rooted in authenticity.
What really makes Laos stand out is its unhurried pace. No one seems to be in a rush, and this relaxed atmosphere spills into the way travelers connect with locals. It feels less about checking off attractions and more about soaking in a vibe. Even the backpacking scene here is different—more hammocks, riverside hostels, and long evenings spent swapping stories.
Of course, Laos isn’t all sleepy villages and temples. The adventure side is thriving, from kayaking down rivers to trekking through remote hill tribe areas. You still feel that sense of exploration, the kind Thailand used to give in the 90s. And the best part? You can travel here without feeling like you’re stuck in a tourist conveyor belt.
Quick Travel Notes for Laos
- Best months to visit: November – March (cooler, dry season)
- Budget range: $20–35/day for backpackers
- Top spots: Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Si Phan Don (4000 Islands)
- Vibe: Relaxed, riverside, hammock-swinging, slow travel
- Transport tip: Buses are cheap but bumpy—expect slow but scenic rides
2. Vietnam
Vietnam is where Southeast Asia feels alive and electric, but without losing that raw charm backpackers crave. From the rice terraces of Sapa to the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An and the chaos of Hanoi’s old quarter, Vietnam has that mix of culture, grit, and discovery that feels reminiscent of early Thailand.
One thing that keeps drawing backpackers here is the legendary motorbike loop. Traveling from north to south (or the other way around) by motorbike is the kind of freedom backpackers used to get in Thailand before highways and tourist buses took over. Every stretch of road feels like an adventure: misty mountain passes, fishing villages, and endless rice paddies rolling into the horizon.
Vietnam is also the place where your dollar still stretches far. Street food is not only dirt cheap but also some of the best you’ll find anywhere in Asia. Sitting on tiny plastic stools, slurping down a bowl of pho, with the buzz of scooters around you, feels more authentic than any polished restaurant could deliver. It’s messy, vibrant, and wonderfully real.
Quick Travel Notes for Vietnam
- Best months to visit: March – May and September – November (pleasant weather)
- Budget range: $25–40/day for backpackers
- Top spots: Hanoi, Ha Giang Loop, Hoi An, Mekong Delta
- Vibe: Fast-paced, cultural, adventurous
- Transport tip: Night buses and trains are cheap and save on accommodation
3. Cambodia
Cambodia gives off that raw backpacker vibe Thailand used to have before mass tourism set in. Yes, Angkor Wat is the big draw, but beyond Siem Reap, Cambodia unfolds into dusty roads, small fishing villages, and wild coastlines where things still feel untouched.
The backpacking scene here is different: it’s less polished, a little rougher around the edges, but that’s exactly what makes it rewarding. You’re not just passing through as a tourist—you’re part of a growing travel culture where hostels are social hubs and night buses are still an adventure. It’s the kind of place where you strike up conversations easily, because everyone’s chasing that same sense of discovery.
Cambodia also has that affordable edge Thailand used to be famous for. Long beach days on Koh Rong, sunset beers by the river in Kampot, and even a night or two in Phnom Penh all come at a fraction of what you’d pay in Thailand now. And there’s something undeniably powerful about experiencing a country that has been through so much but still embraces visitors with warmth.
Quick Travel Notes for Cambodia
- Best months to visit: November – April (dry season)
- Budget range: $20–30/day for backpackers
- Top spots: Angkor Wat, Kampot, Koh Rong, Battambang
- Vibe: Raw, gritty, budget-friendly, welcoming
- Transport tip: Buses connect most places cheaply, though roads can be rough
4. Myanmar
Myanmar is one of those places where backpacking still feels like a true adventure. It hasn’t been fully swept up in commercial tourism, which means you get a rare chance to experience travel in a way that feels unfiltered and real. From the golden temples of Bagan to the stilt villages of Inle Lake, every stop feels like you’re stepping into something unique.
Traveling here isn’t always easy—long bus rides, patchy internet, and unpredictable schedules—but that’s part of the charm. There’s a sense of discovery you don’t often find elsewhere, and when you do land somewhere special, it feels earned. You’re rewarded with warm connections, shared meals, and a look into a culture that’s still very much intact.
For backpackers, Myanmar brings back that community feeling. Because it’s a bit harder to navigate, travelers naturally come together, sharing tips and rides. It feels like a throwback to the 90s in the best way possible—exploration, challenges, and stories that stick with you long after.
Quick Travel Notes for Myanmar
- Best months to visit: November – February (cool and dry)
- Budget range: $25–35/day for backpackers
- Top spots: Bagan, Inle Lake, Mandalay, Yangon
- Vibe: Adventurous, offbeat, rewarding for those who don’t mind rough edges
- Transport tip: Long overnight buses are common, but flights save time on longer routes
5. Indonesia
Indonesia feels like a backpacker’s playground, offering the same sense of wonder Thailand once did but spread across a string of islands. While Bali has become heavily touristed, beyond it lies a whole world where the old-school backpacker vibe is alive and well. Flores, Sumatra, Lombok, and the Gili Islands are just a few places where you still feel like you’ve stumbled into something special.
What makes Indonesia unique is its sheer diversity of experiences. One week you could be hiking volcanoes in Java, the next diving with manta rays in Komodo, and then lazing on a hammock-strung beach. It’s endlessly varied, and because of that, backpackers often end up staying far longer than planned.
The social side of travel here is strong, too. Long ferry rides, shared guesthouses, and beach bonfires make connecting with fellow travelers effortless. There’s still that sense of freedom—of hopping from island to island—that feels like Thailand in its golden backpacker days.
Quick Travel Notes for Indonesia
- Best months to visit: May – September (dry season)
- Budget range: $25–40/day for backpackers
- Top spots: Lombok, Flores, Sumatra, Yogyakarta, Gili Islands
- Vibe: Diverse, island-hopping, adventurous, with plenty of downtime
- Transport tip: Ferries are cheap but slow; budget airlines connect major islands
6. Philippines
The Philippines feels like the wild card of Southeast Asia—it’s not always on the classic backpacker trail, but once you go, it’s hard not to fall in love. With over 7,000 islands, you’re spoiled for choice: powdery beaches, epic diving spots, and small towns where time moves slowly. Unlike Thailand’s crowded resorts, many places here still feel offbeat, giving you that sense of personal discovery.
One of the charms of the Philippines is how naturally social it is. Locals are famously friendly, and English is widely spoken, which makes backpacking here feel effortless. Add in island-hopping boats, hostel BBQ nights, and diving groups, and you’ve got the kind of scene where strangers quickly become travel buddies.
There’s also a strong sense of variety—you can chase waterfalls in Cebu, trek to volcanoes in Luzon, or laze away in Palawan. Every island feels like a new adventure, and that mix of exploration and ease is exactly what Thailand used to give travelers back in the day.
Quick Travel Notes for the Philippines
- Best months to visit: December – May (dry season, avoid typhoon months)
- Budget range: $25–45/day for backpackers
- Top spots: Palawan, Cebu, Siargao, Banaue rice terraces
- Vibe: Social, island-hopping, laid-back with adventure options
- Transport tip: Budget flights save time; ferries are slow but scenic
7. Malaysia
Malaysia often gets overlooked, but that’s what makes it feel refreshingly underrated. It has that sweet mix of modern comfort and raw authenticity that Southeast Asia used to be famous for. You can sip kopi in Kuala Lumpur one day, then trek through misty Cameron Highlands or lounge on quiet beaches in Langkawi the next.
What makes Malaysia stand out is its cultural diversity. Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences all mix, and this is best reflected in the food. Eating here feels like a backpacker’s dream: cheap, filling, and full of flavor. The vibe is less party-heavy compared to Thailand and more about exploring, eating, and connecting with locals at a slower pace.
Backpacking here is also convenient. Transport is reliable, hostels are affordable, and there’s no sense of being stuck in over-commercialized circuits. It feels balanced—easy enough for first-time travelers but still full of hidden gems for those who like straying from the main trail.
Quick Travel Notes for Malaysia
- Best months to visit: December – February for the West Coast, June – August for the East Coast
- Budget range: $25–40/day for backpackers
- Top spots: Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Penang, Perhentian Islands
- Vibe: Chill, culturally rich, foodie-friendly
- Transport tip: Buses and trains are reliable; AirAsia flights make island-hopping cheap
8. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka feels like Thailand’s little cousin from the 90s—not in Southeast Asia proper, but firmly on the backpacker radar. It’s compact yet diverse: beaches, tea plantations, ancient ruins, and surf towns, all within a few hours’ travel. This mix keeps backpackers hooked because every region offers something new without needing long bus marathons.
There’s a raw beauty to Sri Lanka. Trains winding through tea hills, fishermen balancing on stilts, and herds of elephants crossing dusty roads all add to that sense of discovery. It still feels like a country opening itself up to the world, not yet overwhelmed by mass tourism.
The backpacker trail here has that community feel Thailand once had. Surf hostels, yoga retreats, and beach cafes make it easy to settle in and meet others, while still feeling like you’re part of something local and authentic.
Quick Travel Notes for Sri Lanka
- Best months to visit: December – March (south/west coast), April – September (east coast)
- Budget range: $20–35/day for backpackers
- Top spots: Ella, Mirissa, Arugam Bay, Sigiriya
- Vibe: Surf, chill, culturally rich, nature-filled
- Transport tip: Scenic trains are slow but a highlight of travel here
9. Nepal
Nepal is where the spirit of backpacking comes alive in its purest form. The towering Himalayas create a backdrop that makes every trip feel monumental, but beyond trekking, Nepal offers so much more. Kathmandu buzzes with energy, Pokhara is a lakeside haven for backpackers, and the countryside feels timeless.
What makes Nepal feel like Thailand in its early days is its raw accessibility. You can land in Kathmandu with a small budget and instantly find yourself planning treks, joining groups, and sharing tea with strangers-turned-friends. It’s the kind of place where plans change daily, and that unpredictability is half the fun.
And then there’s the trekking culture. Whether it’s Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit, the shared challenge and camaraderie along the trails give you that same backpacker bond Thailand used to have when travelers crisscrossed it in the 90s.
Quick Travel Notes for Nepal
- Best months to visit: October – November and March – May (ideal trekking seasons)
- Budget range: $20–30/day for backpackers
- Top spots: Kathmandu, Pokhara, Annapurna Circuit, Chitwan National Park
- Vibe: Adventurous, social, spiritually rich
- Transport tip: Roads are rough—buses take time, but flights save days on longer routes
10. India (Goa & Kerala)
India is vast and overwhelming, but Goa and Kerala still evoke that old-school backpacker vibe that Thailand had decades ago. Goa’s beach shacks, sunset drums, and yoga retreats feel like stepping into a timeless backpacker paradise, while Kerala’s backwaters offer a slower, more grounded kind of travel.
The thing about backpacking in this part of India is the affordable ease. Meals are cheap, accommodation ranges from bamboo huts to homestays, and transport costs next to nothing. The mix of beaches, culture, and laid-back lifestyle creates that same magnetism Thailand once had for long-term travelers.
It’s also where you still find those extended-stay backpackers—the kind who settle into a beach hut or a riverside guesthouse for weeks, not days. That lingering culture of slow travel is exactly what makes this part of India feel like a ’90s Thailand holdover.
Quick Travel Notes for India (Goa & Kerala)
- Best months to visit: November – March (dry, cooler season)
- Budget range: $15–30/day for backpackers
- Top spots: Palolem, Arambol, Alleppey, Kochi
- Vibe: Relaxed, spiritual, long-term backpacker culture
- Transport tip: Trains are cheap and iconic; tuk-tuks for short distances
11. Bangladesh
Bangladesh is one of those places most travelers skip, which is exactly why it feels so raw and unfiltered. You won’t find polished backpacker circuits here—what you get instead are genuine encounters, chaotic cityscapes, and landscapes that surprise at every turn. From the world’s largest mangrove forest in the Sundarbans to endless stretches of tea gardens in Sylhet, it’s a country still waiting to be discovered.
Backpacking here is less about attractions and more about experiences. Riding on the roof of a train, sharing a tea stall conversation in Dhaka, or drifting down quiet rivers on a wooden boat—it’s these small, unexpected moments that stick with you. It feels like stepping back in time to when travel was more about exploration than Instagram shots.
It’s not the easiest destination, but for those willing to dive in, Bangladesh rewards you with stories and warmth. It has that unpredictable, slightly messy charm that Thailand used to have before it became streamlined.
Quick Travel Notes for Bangladesh
- Best months to visit: October – March (cool, dry weather)
- Budget range: $15–25/day for backpackers
- Top spots: Sundarbans, Srimangal, Cox’s Bazar, Old Dhaka
- Vibe: Untouched, chaotic, rewarding for adventurous travelers
- Transport tip: Trains are cheap and atmospheric; buses are common but hectic
12. Timor-Leste (East Timor)
Timor-Leste is Southeast Asia’s best-kept secret. While most travelers don’t make it this far, those who do often describe it as what Bali or Lombok might have felt like decades ago—rugged, quiet, and refreshingly untouched by mass tourism. The beaches here are breathtaking, often empty, and the diving is considered some of the best in the world.
The country has a raw edge—basic infrastructure, limited backpacker hostels, and rough roads—but that’s exactly why it feels so rewarding. Traveling here is about slowing down, embracing the unknown, and enjoying places that haven’t yet been carved into tourist hotspots.
If Thailand of the 90s was about discovery, Timor-Leste is that spirit reborn. You’ll find yourself on beaches with only a handful of locals, riding on the back of motorbikes, and sharing meals with families who still see travelers as guests rather than customers.
Quick Travel Notes for Timor-Leste
- Best months to visit: May – November (dry season, great for diving)
- Budget range: $25–40/day for backpackers
- Top spots: Dili, Atauro Island, Jaco Island
- Vibe: Remote, untouched, adventurous
- Transport tip: Limited public transport—hitchhiking and shared rides are common
13. Bhutan
Bhutan feels completely different from the rest of the list—it’s not chaotic or rugged but instead offers a deeply peaceful and spiritual journey. While it isn’t the cheapest place for backpackers (thanks to its tourism policies), for those who make the effort, Bhutan is the kind of destination that leaves a lasting imprint.
The landscapes are stunning—snow-capped peaks, terraced fields, and ancient monasteries clinging to cliffsides. But beyond the scenery, it’s Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness that sets it apart. Traveling here feels less like sightseeing and more like stepping into a culture that values balance, tradition, and well-being over rapid modernization.
Unlike Thailand’s party-heavy reputation today, Bhutan gives travelers a chance to slow down, reflect, and reconnect. It may not be the classic shoestring destination, but it echoes the spiritual side of travel that Thailand once had before being overrun by mass backpacking.
Quick Travel Notes for Bhutan
- Best months to visit: March – May and September – November (clear skies, festivals)
- Budget range: $50–80/day (mandatory minimum spend for most travelers)
- Top spots: Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest), Thimphu, Punakha Valley
- Vibe: Spiritual, serene, culturally immersive
- Transport tip: Most travel is arranged via tour packages, though trekking routes allow more freedom
14. Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea is the wild frontier of travel—challenging, unpredictable, but undeniably fascinating. It’s one of the few places left where backpacking feels like true exploration. From dense jungles to volcanic highlands and tribal villages, every step feels like you’re venturing somewhere few outsiders go.
This is not a destination for comfort-seekers. Infrastructure is minimal, transport can be grueling, and independent travel requires flexibility. But for those who embrace the challenge, Papua New Guinea offers experiences that are as authentic as it gets—staying in remote villages, trekking the famous Kokoda Trail, or attending vibrant tribal festivals.
Thailand in the 90s gave backpackers a sense of stepping off the map. Today, Papua New Guinea offers that same sense, multiplied. It’s not for everyone, but for adventurous souls, it’s the ultimate throwback to what raw, untamed travel once was.
Quick Travel Notes for Papua New Guinea
- Best months to visit: May – October (dry season, trekking and festivals)
- Budget range: $40–70/day (higher due to logistics)
- Top spots: Kokoda Trail, Mount Hagen, Sepik River, Port Moresby
- Vibe: Wild, challenging, raw adventure
- Transport tip: Domestic flights are essential; boats and 4WDs connect remote areas
